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Showing
in: Circuit Empire
Synopsis:
Girl on the Bridge is an absorbing piece of
film fiction and, to my mind, an instant classic. From the
choice of its stars to the use of a gritty, many shaded
black to white spectrum, it is a spellbinding expression
of director, Patrice Leconte's, mastery of the art of
filmmaking. Every throw of the knife notches up the
suspense to an ecstasy of fear on behalf of the characters
you come to love. This is an unusual romance that leaves
the viewer enlightened and lighthearted without any
sacrifice of reality.
The Girl is portrayed by Vanessa Paradis, who, in
her person and in her manner, invokes memories of both
Brigitte Bardot and Audrey Hepburn, a radiant, sensuous
mix that is haunting and captivating. There's rapturous
innocence despite her frequent
and intense sexual encounters, and some part of her
remains pristine throughout the most seemingly perverse
scenes. Seduction for her must be emotional and
intellectual, not merely sexual, because her body is
routinely given, and through her experiences, we
realize its satisfactions do not ultimately satisfy.
Although some scenes recall other great pictures of
yesteryear, such as The Seventh Veil, Girl makes new,
inspired use of beloved film moments to make its own
statement: the human spirit deepens and expands to the
extent to which it trusts in, and is dedicated to, love.
To love is to risk, and in this film of heart thumping
suspense, we come face to face with the dangers love
entails. Love, like this film, is not for the faint of
heart. I, for one, am looking forward to my second time.
Many compliments to Patrice Leconte and his wonderful
collaborators!
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